Chapter 2

College applications were crucial. We were all straight-A students from the elite class. If we submitted our applications normally, getting into Isadore University was basically guaranteed.

But if we all ended up applying to vocational colleges and missed the regular application window, not only would Isadore University be out of reach, but we'd be left with top scores and nowhere to go.

All those years of hard work would be for nothing.

In my previous life, I was so afraid their futures would be ruined that I secretly reported them to the school and their parents. All I got in return was their hatred, and my family's ruin.

This time, I was actually eager to see how things turn out for them.

Since they were so desperate to be bootlickers, I wanted to see what kind of mess they'd make of their lives without a diploma.

Less than half an hour after I left the group chat, Jared led the whole class to my house, kicking my door like maniacs.

As soon as I opened the door, two of the top scorers roughly shoved me to the floor.

"Melissa, who do you think you are, acting all high and mighty in front of us?" one of them said.

"Corine's not even competing for your spot. We're just trying to help her get into Isadore University. You only got tenth place in the city, so stop acting like you're better than us," another chimed in.

"So you left the group chat. Who are you trying to scare? Don't think our plan will fall apart just because you bailed," a third scoffed.

Seeing me freeze up, Jared stormed into my room and changed my college application choices.

"We're giving you a shot to go negotiate with Isadore University with us. Don't act like you're too good for this," he snapped.

I gritted my teeth. Remembering how they poisoned me without hesitation in my previous life, it sent a chill through my whole body.

These demons in front of me wouldn't even spare my parents.

Thinking about it made my blood boil. I was shaking with rage.

They thought I was scared. Jared's face changed.

The ones who'd been mocking me a second ago suddenly went quiet, trying to play nice.

"Melissa's just worried we won't have time to change our applications and it'll screw up our futures. Maybe we were a bit too harsh just now."

"Yeah, she's always taken care of everyone as class president these past few years."

Corine suddenly burst into tears, her voice trembling as she sobbed, "Just let it go, everyone. Fill out your applications properly.

"Don't make things difficult for Corine because of me. I know she looks down on me. That's why she use the threat of ruining your future to scare you."

Jared pulled her into his arms, gently patting her head as he said arrogantly, "Isadore University? Who cares? If all of us apply to vocational colleges, there's no way the admissions office won't be shaken.

"When we meet the principal tomorrow, Corine will definitely get a special admission, maybe even a scholarship. We'll get to stick together then.

"Guys, we're the real deal, not like those bookworms from small towns who think grades are everything and worship Isadore University. If we all turn down Isadore, the principal will be so scared he'll be begging us.

'With so many top students like us, Isadore University will have to scramble to change their admissions rules overnight."

Listening to them, I couldn't help but feel it was absurd. They strutted around, acting so smug, every word was just to reassure Corine, and to convince themselves.

They really were the top students in the state, but the SATs was the ultimate equalizer.

Besides, Corine scored pretty low. Did they seriously think they could strong-arm Isadore University into giving her a special admission? As if the countless students across the country would sit back and accept it.

Sure, they were talented, but outside our city, there were gifted students everywhere too.

I smoothed out my rumpled shirt. "I get what you guys are trying to do. I won't stand in your way. With all your capabilities, Isadore University is bound to cave to you. I'll just sit this one out."

Melissa furrowed her brows, and the other straight-A students glanced at each other, looking uncertain.

"Quit acting, will you?" Jared gave me a long, cold stare before sneering, "Join or don't, whatever. With your grades, it doesn't make a difference. Seriously, who do you think you are?"

I kept a straight face as they discussed how they'd negotiate with the Isadore University's principal tomorrow, when suddenly Corine reached out and grabbed me.

"Melissa, just come with us to Isadore University. Even if it doesn't work out, you won't really end up at a vocational college. And if you snitch to the school or our parents after we're gone, our whole plan goes up in smoke," she said.

Our classmates closed in around me. I instinctively backed away, their menacing glares making my heart race as I tried to stammer out a response.

"N-No... I won't," I said, panic rising in my chest.